Travel industry contributes to relief efforts for Haiti earthquake

Hotels, airline companies, travel agents and travel websites are doing their share in helping Haiti after a devastating earthquake (measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale) struck about 15km south west of Port-au-Prince last Tuesday.

Airlines such as Continental, Delta, United Airlines, US Airways and other such companies encourage their clients to donate miles or money to the American Red Cross. American Airlines will award 250 bonus miles for every $50 donation. A Boeing 747 relief aircraft with volunteer pilots and cabin crew courtesy of British Airways will be flying to assist agencies in charge of emergency and rescue operations and services including equipment to Haiti.

In the hotel industry, Marriott International, Choice Hotels, HHonors Hilton Worldwide (10,000 points=$25 donation), Best Western (5,000 points=$20 donation) and more hotels are offering their clients ways to exchange or donate their hotel loyalty points for an equivalent amount to be donated to Haiti.

Cruise lines are also involved in the Haiti earthquake relief efforts. Royal Caribbean pledged at least $1 million relief to Haiti in partnership with Food for the Poor, Pan American Development Foundation and other organizations. The company also announced about an on-board program for passengers to donate to the relief fund and that 100% of the net revenue from cruise ship visits to Haiti will also be added to their donation. On the other hand, Norwegian Cruise Line is also collecting donations for the Red Cross on board. The cruise company is partnering with the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, a non-profit organization which represents fifteen cruise lines, for delivery of supplies to Haiti.

Via USA Today, Los Angeles Times and Travel Weekly